Calling all candy lovers! An illustrated and fun chapter book delivers the crazy history of all your favorite candy!Candy is more than a delicious and sweet treat adored by children and adults alike. It has a history all its own from its early origins-think ancient Egyptians-to delicacy innovators, unusual creations, and scandalous feuds among confectioners. This delectable book examines the sweet and storied life of candy as we know it.

The name itself has long origins, with qandi, meaning sugared in Arabic, and khanda, piece of sugar in Indian Sanskrit, leading the way. The sweet juice in the thick sugarcane grass was first enjoyed by the people of India. But although traditional knowledge says so, candy doesn’t always contain sugar; sometimes it uses other sweeteners like molasses or honey. And this isn’t the last of the delineations of what is considered candy and what is not. It even varies from country to country. Hot chocolate, anyone?

Candy’s story is a part of human history itself. There are cave paintings that depict people licking sticks used to collect honey from beehives: the world’s original lollipop. Fast forward to the first chocolate bar’s creation in 1847 to the current largest candy companies in the world- Nestle, Mars, Hershey-candy has become big money around the world.

But candy isn’t all fun and games; it also has a darker history. Hundreds of thousands of African slaves in the 16th through 18th centuries were shipped from their country to others to work on harsh sugar plantations. With this increase in sugar production, candy’s manufacturing boom began, and candy was introduced to the masses.

Children and adults alike will delight in learning about the origins of various types of candy-chewing gum, hard candy, milk chocolate-as well as how their current favorite sweets are made. A list of popular brands and their bestselling offerings, including Chiclet gum, M&Ms, Junior Mints, and Tootsie Pops, among others, will have young readers fascinated learning the backgrounds of their beloved treats. With notable quotes, pictures, trivia, games, recipes, and maps throughout, A Lil’ Twirly Story of Candy, has something for everyone.

Get your sweet copy today!